Project: Northology Nicolet National Forest Cleanup
Location: Wisconsin

Description: On November 8, 2025, Northology Adventures and Wisconsin Overland hosted a community-driven cleanup and campout in the Nicolet National Forest. Despite a federal government shutdown preventing U.S. Forest Service (USFS) staff from attending in-person, volunteers pressed forward with strong remote support from the agency, assistance from Tread Lightly!, and critical supply funding from the BFGoodrich Outstanding Trails grant.

Community members took on elevated responsibility, coordinating the delivery and retrieval of a 25-yard dumpster, identifying the cleanup site near the headwaters of the Wolf River, gathering volunteers, and even pooling funds to cover rental costs. Slap Bang Bagel again fueled the team with a hearty trail lunch, while Northology ensured smooth logistics and a welcoming basecamp.

A total of 18 volunteers contributed 108 hours of stewardship work, removing and filling an entire 25-yard dumpster with trash from deep within the forest. Their efforts protected sensitive watershed areas, improved recreation quality, and demonstrated that strong stewardship can carry on even under challenging circumstances.

This cleanup underscored the resilience and commitment of the public lands community. Volunteers showed how responsible recreation and stewardship go hand in hand, ensuring the Nicolet National Forest remains healthy and accessible for years to come.

Thank you to the partners who made this possible:

  • BFGoodrich Tires
  • Northology Adventures
  • U.S. Forest Service
  • Slap Bang Bagel
  • onX Offroad
  • Midland Radio 

“We’re out here because we love this place. Without community action, abandoned dump sites like this would continue to grow, harming wildlife, water, and the outdoor experience for everyone.”- August Rich, Volunteer

“The effort stands as a testament to what local recreators can accomplish when they work together—even without formal agency presence. It also reflects the ongoing commitment of Northology, Wisconsin Overland, and their supporters to care for the public lands they use and enjoy. Big thanks to Tread Lightly!, BFGoodrich Tires, Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest Service Laona Ranger station, Wisconsin Overland, Slap Bang Bagel, The MOORE Expo, onX Offroad, MidlandUSA, Radio Chatter and the volunteers and contributors who made this workday happen.”- Cindy Pope, Northology Adventures founder & Wisconsin Overland Admin

“A tremendous thank you to Northology Adventures and Wisconsin Overland for a wonderful project day incorporated into an overland camping weekend.  I also want to thank our valued partner BFGoodrich Tires for their grant funding provided through their Outstanding Trails Program.  It is through this type of effort that we are able to do such great work across the country through the collaboration of funding partners, recreation adventure groups, volunteers and land managers working together to help us all Protect the Adventure for future generations.  Thank you all!” – Lowell Eckart, Tread Lightly Southeast Program Manager